HN 1930–1934*

Grandson of Sir James Balfour-Paul, Lord Lyon King of Arms, Ian went up to Pembroke College Cambridge on leaving Wellington, where he had been a College Prefect and member of the rugby XV. He spent two years as a schoolmaster at Merchiston Castle School, Edinburgh, but was commissioned into the Royal Engineers in 1941. Like many others, he had to await active service until 1944.

Selected for a specialist force called 'Phantom' alias GHQ Liaison Regiment, he was a patrol commander landing with 3 Canadian Infantry Division on Arromanches beach on D Day, 6th June. The task was to pass tactical information on the progress of operations direct by wireless from the forward area to the Commander-in-Chief. Subsequent actions in which Ian was involved were Operation Goodwood, the seizing of Caen, the attack on Walcheren Island, Holland, when his amphibious craft was sunk, and the Rhine Crossing, in his case by glider, for which he was awarded the Military Cross.

After the war, Ian devoted the rest of his life to Merchiston Castle School, where he taught biology, became a housemaster, continued teaching until 1971 and remained closely involved in school life for very many years afterwards. He had a profound influence on generations of pupils. He loved travelling, had a very cosmopolitan outlook, never married but loved the company of women and was much loved by nieces, nephews and god-children. Ian had a deep Christian faith which found expression in his infectious zest for life.

*"HN" refers to Hardinge, one of Wellington College's boarding houses.